Trail Overview
NF 517 is an easy, scenic connector route perfect for beginners, scenic cruisers, and those looking to link up popular offroad trails near the historic town of Creede, Colorado. Spanning just over 1.2 miles, this short dirt route climbs or descends roughly 500 feet, peaking near 9,321 feet in elevation and offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains and valley floor. Because of its gentle grades and a technical rating of 1, the trail is highly accessible and requires only a standard two-wheel-drive or high-clearance vehicle under dry conditions, making it an excellent warm-up or transit road. It directly links the historic Bachelor Loop (FS 507) on its southern end to Miners Creek Road (FS 505) on the north, providing a seamless bypass through the rolling, pine-dotted hillsides of the Rio Grande National Forest.
Offroaders can easily combine this route with nearby adventures, as Miners Creek Road grants further access to the rugged trails of Shallow Creek and Sawmill Gulch. The area is steeped in late 19th-century silver mining history, with ruins, old tailing piles, and historical structures dotting the broader landscape surrounding Creede and Sunnyside. The trail is typically open from late spring through late autumn, depending on snowfall, and is a great option for viewing vibrant autumn aspen colors. Visitors should plan for variable weather conditions, pack out all trash, and remain on designated paths to preserve the delicate alpine environment.
History
The trail traverses the historic Creede Mining District, which experienced a massive silver boom in the early 1890s. The nearby Bachelor Loop and the ghost town of Sunnyside are rich with remnants of this era, including historic mine shafts, old cabins, and tailing piles from when Creede was one of Colorado's most active silver-producing areas.
Access Description
No fees or permits are required to drive NF 517, which is managed by the Rio Grande National Forest. All motorized vehicles must be street-legal or possess a valid Colorado OHV registration. The route is open seasonally, typically from late spring through late autumn, and is closed to wheeled vehicles during the winter due to snow.
